Serious safety concerns have been raised over the industrial area of Polemidia in Limassol, with the Fire Service warning in parliament that a blaze there could turn into a major disaster.
According to the testimony presented, about 90% of the workshops have undergone additions and unauthorised extensions, leaving emergency exits restricted or effectively blocked. If a fire breaks out, it could quickly spread to three or four neighbouring units.
The danger is even greater because several of the businesses handle flammable materials, including car-painting operations and wood-working facilities. A cartridge-manufacturing workshop also operates nearby, adding another layer of risk in the event of a fire.
The Fire Service also criticised the lack of meaningful checks after operating licences are granted, saying there is often no follow-up to confirm whether fire-safety conditions are actually being observed. Lawmakers are now calling for urgent action before an irreversible incident occurs.
